LTO Bacoor dragged for ‘substandard’ lactation room

The corner is labeled “Kiddie Corner and Lactating Room.” The supposed area is located underneath a staircase and behind what appears to be a queuing area. It consists of a rubber mat for the kiddie corner and a cordoned-off lactation station covered only by a curtain. From a distance, the corner also appears to be dimly lit.

Netizens criticized the corner for its substandard setup, which many said was demeaning to breastfeeding mothers and appeared to lack the necessary facilities required by law. Commenters also pointed out the incorrect grammar on the station’s label, noting that “Lactating” should be “Lactation.”

The Expanded Breastfeeding Act of 2009, or Republic Act No. 10028, requires all government agencies and private institutions to establish designated lactation stations. The law mandates that these stations should be “private, clean, sanitary, and well-ventilated.”

Under the law, lactation stations must include a handwashing area if none is nearby; refrigeration or appropriate cooling facilities for storing milk; electrical outlets for breast pumps; a small table; comfortable seating; and other suitable features.

With the supposed lactation station tucked behind a curtain, it is unclear if the corner offers the required facilities. Many netizens believe that it does not.

Others also expressed concern that the room setup may pose health risks to both children and lactating mothers due to exposure to dust and dirt from the staircase.

Heads of facilities that fail to provide appropriate lactation facilities face a reprimand on first offense, suspension of up to 30 days on second offense, and dismissal on third offense.